Cato Podcast First, Do No Harm
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Sep 4, 2025 Join Jeffrey A. Singer, a seasoned surgeon and health policy expert, alongside Scott Lincicome, a trade policy guru. They tackle pressing issues like the uproar at the CDC, questioning the need for a Surgeon General, and dissect a critical ruling declaring Trump's global tariffs illegal. The conversation reveals the politicization of vaccine policies and advocates for local health decision-making. Plus, they share insights on innovative governance solutions, providing a fresh take on public health in a free society.
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CDC Shakeup Reveals Deeper Mission Conflict
- The CDC's vaccine-advisory shakeup reflects deep disagreement between RFK Jr. and career public health officials.
- Jeffrey Singer argues this shows federal public health agencies have overreached beyond infectious disease control.
Devolve Personal Health Guidance
- Avoid federal agencies making personal healthcare recommendations that crowd out clinicians' advice.
- Jeffrey Singer recommends devolving vaccine and personal-health guidance back to states and professional societies.
Public Health Should Prevent Public Harm
- Legitimate public health roles focus on preventing harms that affect others, like contagious disease or environmental toxins.
- Jeffrey Singer insists choices about diet and lifestyle should remain private and discussed with personal clinicians.